In a powerful address at the West Philippine Sea Symposium held at Marikina Polytechnic College on May 19, 2025, Commodore Jay Tarriela emphasized the legal and rightful ownership of the West Philippine Sea. He clarified that the name “West Philippine Sea” is not merely a matter of perspective but is grounded in international law, particularly the 2016 Arbitral Tribunal ruling under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
Commodore Tarriela stressed that the West Philippine Sea belongs to the Filipino people and must be safeguarded for future generations. He called on the youth to be informed, critical, and actively involved in maritime advocacy.
